There are a few possible documents available for getting back into the U.S. after a trip to Los Algodones. The first option is a regular U.S. passport, which is available to American citizens who fill out the appropriate paperwork. Passport forms are available in any U.S. Postal Service office. It takes about one month or so before the paperwork processes and the passport arrives in the mail. There are rush orders available, but the cost is higher.
A passport card is a less expensive option available for travel to Mexico. The passport card is similar to a passport, but it only works for land travel and is not an option for flying to and from Mexico. The cost of a passport card is approximately half the cost of a passport.
Travel to Los Algodones does allow the use of a U.S. ID and birth certificate to come back into the country. While a passport or passport card are preferred, it is possible to get back into the United States with proof of identity and proof of citizenship. The process for returning takes much longer with the ID and birth certificate, but it is an option that is less expensive than getting the passport or passport card. If using this option, clear the documents with the U.S. Border Patrol before going as the laws change often and the rules regarding this are liable to change at any time.
